In 2020, an estimated 21.0 million adults in the United States had at least one major depressive episode, and the numbers are climbing: this raises a question about a new technique for depression called transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and whether TMS is safe for depression treatment.
While many sufferers respond to medication and/or talk therapy, many patients don’t find adequate relief with traditional treatment methods. In those cases, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) may be the answer. But is it safe for you? In most cases, the answer is yes: TMS is safe.
The National Institute of Health determined TMS is safe, and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved TMS as a safe treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). TMS is also safe for smoking cessation and other disorders including anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and more.
In addition, TMS is not associated with the potential side-effects of antidepressant medications, such as upset stomach, dry mouth, sexual dysfunction, weight gain, and more. While traditional therapies do work for many people, TMS remains one of the safest and most effective treatments for depression.
What is TMS Therapy?
TMS works by emitting gentle magnetic pulses to the area of the brain that regulates mood. These pulses activate specific areas of the brain and decrease symptoms of depression. Patients will sit comfortably in a chair during their 20-minute session and can drive themselves home after treatment.
Relief Mental Health uses BrainsWay technology, which has been demonstrated to have exceptional efficacy due to its broad and deep prefrontal stimulation. Unlike medication, the benefits of TMS are durable. This means patients experience lasting remission of symptoms long after they complete treatment.
What About Side Effects?
Again, TMS therapy is highly effective and proven safe, but temporary side effects may occur from treatment. The most common side effects include mild headaches or tingling in the scalp or jaw. These effects fade away quickly and typically do not impair your ability to carry out everyday tasks. According to several clinical studies, long-term side effects of TMS therapy have not been reported. Individuals with treatment-resistant depression can obtain TMS therapy safely without worrying that there are long-term impacts of this specific form of treatment.
If you are struggling with depression and not getting relief from your current treatments, reach out to Relief Mental Health today at 630-974-6602 or via the form below. With offices throughout Illinois, Wisconsin, and New Jersey, our medical team will design a treatment plan that works for you and your schedule.
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